Confined Space Rescue

 

The OSHA rule at 1926.21(b)(6)(i) says that your employer must instruct you as to the: (1) nature of confined space hazards, (2) precautions to be taken, and (3) the use of protective and emergency equipment required [for rescue]. This toolbox talk concentrates on the rescue aspect of confined space entry.

Some examples of situations where a confined space rescue program is required are:

Open surface tanks—If in emergencies, such as rescue work, it is necessary to enter a tank which may contain a hazardous atmosphere, suitable respirators must be used.

Welding—When a welder enters a confined space...means must be provided for quick removal in case of an emergency. When safety belts and lifelines are used for this purpose they shall be so attached...that a welder cannot be jammed in a small opening. An attendant with a pre-planned rescue procedure must be stationed outside to observe the welder at all times and be capable of implementing rescue operations.

Excavations—Rescue equipment, such as breathing apparatus, a safety harness and line, or a basket stretcher, must be readily available where hazardous atmospheric conditions exist or may reasonably be expected to develop during excavation work. The equipment must be attended when in use. With regard to excavations, OSHA has stipulated that emergency rescue equipment is only required to be readily available where a competent person determines, based on the jobsite conditions, that hazardous atmospheric conditions exist or may reasonably be expected to develop during work in a particular excavation.

Work in manholes—While work is being done in manholes, an employee must be available nearby to give emergency assistance as may be required.
The minimum requirements you should look for in your company’s written emergency rescue procedure is that:

• Trained personnel must be available and stationed outside the confined space with proper equipment to provide for the rescue of persons entering the space.

• The equipment must include a safety harness and lifelines with provisions for hoisting employees from the confined space.

• If entry is required for rescue, the rescue person must be equipped with approved air supplied respiratory equipment and other appropriate personal protective equipment.

Of the approximately 54 workers who die each year in confined space accidents, almost two-thirds result from people attempting a rescue. Never attempt a rescue in a confined space if you are: (1) not trained, (2) do not have the proper equipment.